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Local planning and zoning officials can access many sources of reliable information when deciding how to address climate change.

Climate change is happening: that’s the conclusion of a vast majority of climate scientists. The potential influences on local communities are numerous. For example, research predicts an increased number of extreme weather events; in Michigan, that largely means floods and droughts. Changes to historical precipitation patterns have big implications for storm water management and drinking water availability. It is difficult to predict exactly what the effect of climate change will be in specific communities, but there is little doubt that all parts of Michigan will be affected in some way.

Planning and zoning for an uncertain future is nothing new. Master plans are based on trends and data, as well as on predictions about how those changes might affect our communities. But how do planning and zoning officials get started? What is their role in this issue? Where do they look for information and data relevant to Michigan?

There is a bewildering array of climate change information available, some of it reliable and some not. Below are some web sites and documents that are good starting points for local planning and zoning officials in Michigan.

Policy Guide on Planning and Climate Change American Planning Association. Although a bit long (and dry), this document includes descriptions of a broad range of recommended policy actions to deal with climate change.

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